Reading-area projects get $20.5M in state money

State Sen. Judy Schwank announced $20.5 million in Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grant funding for seven projects in her 11th Senatorial District.

· Alvernia University was awarded $7.5 million for the development of the vacant sixth floor of the Reading CollegeTowne building, allowing the university to expand program offerings and student housing.

· Reading Area Community College received $5 million for the Weitz Health Pavilion to fund a series of physical improvements to increase learning space for health care students and workers. The project would allow all health care programming to be housed in one building.

· Albright College was granted $3 million to renovate the Leo Camp Building, which will become home to the Science Research Institute. The institute offers after-school and summer learning programs to middle school and high school-age students. Renovations will include the addition of a food and brewery science lab.

· Olivet Boys and Girls Club received $1 million for safety and infrastructure improvements around four centers operating in Reading, including electrical, HVAC and plumbing upgrades.

· KidsPeace was allocated $1 million for improving at its Berks County facility in Muhlenberg Township. The funding will go toward an upgraded HVAC system; roof replacement; health and safety upgrades; and repaved sidewalks around the facility.

· FirstEnergy Stadium was awarded $2 million in continued support of renovations that are necessary to meet the facility standard issued by Major League Baseball.

· Reading Housing Authority was given $1 million to support the Oakbrook Homes Center for Community Services. The project will renovate the former boiler plant to create a core, shell and exterior for a new Family Services Complex.

Paula Wolf is a freelance writer